So many books, so little time. We do, however, have time for these books we have featured below in honor of National Book Lovers Day coming up on August 9th. Books are a great escape; an opportunity to step in someone else’s shoes and see their view of the world. Grab a cup of tea, cozy up on the couch, and when your eyes are strong, open up one of these books. A variety of books for all audiences, these relatable stories will give you hope, welcome you with open arms, and remind you that you are worthy of a fulfilling life.
"Must Reads" for Chronically Ill
Extraordinary! A Book for Children with Rare Diseases
Co-written by mother and son duo, Kara and Evren Ayik, Extraordinary! A Book for Children with Rare Diseases sets the stage for families to have an open conversation about self-image, particularly those living with a rare disease. Sound familiar? You may recall we hosted a virtual youth group back in March featuring Kara and Evren as guest speakers! Inspired by Evren’s own experience with a rare genetic disease, the co-authors wanted to provide the rare disease community a book that celebrates diversity and fosters an inclusive space for children growing up with rare conditions. The book is filled with illustrations that embrace a variety of cultures and sends a positive message that life can still be extraordinary while living with a rare disease. To learn more about the authors and the book, check out this interview they did with CSL Behring.
The Invisible Kingdom
New York Times bestselling author, Meghan O’Rourke, explores her personal experience as well as the collective experience of individuals living with an “invisible illness.” O’Rourke lays out more than a decade of interviews with providers, healthcare professionals, and patients to better understand why Americans have found themselves in this public health crisis. With a history lesson in Western medicine to our present-day approach to healthcare, O’Rourke offers hope, comfort, and a fresh perspective on health and wellness. To learn more about The Invisible Kingdom, click here.
What Doesn’t Kill You
Writer and disability justice advocate, Tessa Miller, takes readers on her journey to a Crohn’s disease diagnosis, filled with years of pain, procedures, and heartbreak. Miller’s personal experience with chronic illness reflects the reality so many in the United States face, providing the audience a relatable story that offers knowledge, support, and a closer look at the physical and emotional toll such diseases take on individuals. An honest yet encouraging account for those coping with incurable conditions. To learn more about What Doesn’t Kill you, click here.
The Chance to Fly
Tony award winning actress, Ali Stroker, and author, Stacy Davidowitz, co-wrote a beautiful story about a teenager girl with a passion for musical theatre and a quest to pursue her dreams in spite of what some may think as a limitation. Nat Beacon, the spunky thirteen-year-old, does not let her wheelchair hold her back from auditioning for one of her all-time favorite productions, Wicked. The book lends great lessons for children including normalizing fears and insecurities, overcoming obstacles, and as Stroker’s motto states, “turning your limitations into your opportunities.” To learn more about the author, click here.
Brain on fire
New York Times bestselling author, Susannah Cahalan, writes a captivating memoir about a pivotal moment in time that ultimately almost costs her, her life. One day, Cahalan finds herself in a hospital bed, unable to move or speak with no understanding as to why or how she got there. From there, the author takes the audience on a wild and compelling ride, while those around her attempt to solve the medical mystery that leaves everyone, even herself, totally perplexed. The book presents readers with a true story about resilience, unconditional love, and identity. To learn more about the author, click here.